Dramatic Rescue Off Fred Olsen’s Braemar in English Channel
A tense rescue mission unfolded early Wednesday as the Fred Olsen Braemar cruise ship battled rough weather in the middle of the English Channel. Rain and choppy seas made the daring operation a real challenge.
Coastguard Helicopter Scrambles in Stormy Conditions
The Coastguard’s search and rescue helicopter launched from Lee-on-the-Solent just after 12:45am. The Braemar was anchored around four miles off Ventnor when a passenger fell seriously ill, prompting the emergency call.
Rescue Hits Rough Patch Amid Poor Weather
The bad weather caused significant movement on the cruise ship, complicating the airlift. Despite the conditions, the helicopter crew managed to safely airlift the casualty and rush him to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth for urgent treatment.
Cruise Ship Back on Course
A Maritime and Coastguard Agency spokesperson confirmed: “At 11.50pm the Coastguard received a call from Braemar requesting assistance for an unwell passenger.
The Braemar is now reported to be continuing its journey towards Rotterdam, Holland, as planned.